Athinarayanan

I was very puzzled because I had liver failure even though I had never smoked or drunk alcohol. One day, I suddenly vomited blood at home and was rushed to the hospital where I was diagnosed with Wilson's disease. The disease resulted in the build-up of copper in my liver, damaging it.

For seven years, the disease progressed. Emotionally, it felt like a ticking time bomb. I was told to limit myself to 500ml of water daily. However, it was impossible as I had to carry heavy loads and work outdoors. As a result, my legs became swollen and I could not work for long.

In 2010, I was diagnosed with end-stage liver failure. The past few years were disruptive for myself and my family. I could not secure a part-time job in view of my frequent hospital visits. Whenever I was hospitalised, I felt like a different person, scolding my doctors as I was in a confused state due to my condition.

After waiting for three years, a liver was finally available for me. However, I was told that it was not a simple surgery. As my liver was damaged, it could not produce enough platelets. A small cut could potentially cause me to bleed profusely. I thus required blood transfusions to stabilise my condition for the transplant surgery.

Post-transplant, I was able to resume work at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The donated organ has allowed me to secure a full-time job, to support my family and to be able to spend more time with them. I would like to thank my organ donor and her family. You gave me the chance to live again, I will always treasure it.